While there are already several high-powered smartphones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, many people are eagerly anticipating further innovations from Qualcomm. They predict that top-tier smartphones set for release in 2024 will utilize Qualcomm’s latest chipset, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. As of now, Qualcomm is keeping information about this technology tightly under wraps. However, there have been some leaks from reliable sources!
Reportedly, the processor with the code SM8650 is codenamed “Lanai” or “Pineapple.” Qualcomm typically gives its chipsets codenames based on distinctive elements from Hawaii. For instance, “Lahaina” for 888, “Taro” for 8 Gen 1, and “Kalama” for 8 Gen 2. Therefore, “Lanai” for Gen 3 may very well be accurate. After learning the name of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, let’s dive right into its features below.
What Are the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Features?
Qualcomm has not officially announced the features of their latest generation Snapdragon processor. Nevertheless, reliable sources whose reports have proven accurate in the past have leaked information about the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 as follows:
- Full 64-bit Support
Qualcomm is finally leaving behind its support for 32-bit, providing full support for 64-bit. In the midst of an Android ecosystem that has already migrated to 64-bit support, this makes the product more efficient. Since August 2021, Google Play Store has only provided 64-bit applications to devices that support it. - Latest Arm Cortex
In the previous generation processor, Qualcomm used a design configuration of 1+4+3, with its efficiency cores consisting of one X3, a combination of two A715 and two A710, and three A510. If Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 uses the same design configuration, it’s expected to feature one Cortex-X4, four A720, or combined with A715, and three A520.
The inclusion of Cortex-X4 in the processor is expected to deliver a 15% performance improvement over the previous generation. Not only that, its power efficiency will increase by up to 40%. Furthermore, the latest A720 and A520 generations promise an efficiency increase of approximately 20% year over year.
The leaked configuration details are not the only information circulating. According to Digital Chat Station, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 will use a new configuration, namely 1+5+2. However, they also reported that the Cortex-X4, with a clock speed of 3.7 GHz, will be the primary core used.
- Utilizes Adreno 750 GPU
Information regarding the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) that will accompany Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is limited at this time. According to Digital Chat Station, the GPU to be used is named Adreno 750. It’s rumored that this GPU will significantly enhance the processor’s capabilities. It’s hoped that Adreno 750 can become Qualcomm’s first GPU to reach a clock speed of up to 1 GHz. - AI Technology IntegrationIn 2023, AI development has become a hot topic of discussion. Considering this, AI is expected to play a significant role in the processors that Qualcomm develops. However, it’s not yet known what specific capabilities will be enhanced after embedding artificial intelligence in their processors.
It’s likely that the chipset will better handle AI models. This is evident from a demo phone that can run Stable Diffusion, although with limited capabilities.
- Snapdragon X75 5G Modem
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 wouldn’t be complete without adequate connectivity options. Just like other aspects, this chipset is expected to use the latest and best connectivity technology. In addition to Wi-Fi 7 support, Snapdragon X75 5G promises a 20% power saving compared to the X70 and offers more accurate GPS with GNSS Location G2 designed for Qualcomm’s latest flagship chips.
Qualcomm refers to the X75 as the world’s first advanced-ready 5G modem-RF system. This means that the transceiver in the system can handle mmWave and sub-6 band 5G on its own, making it ready to face the evolution of 5G networks using both frequencies. This design also contributes to the power efficiency of this system.
Moreover, X75 is rumored to have AI processing capabilities 2.5 times faster than X70. Additionally, it has the technology to enable two active SIM data connections simultaneously, allowing you to have two 5G connections at the same time.
When Will Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Be Released?
The exact release date of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is not known as of the writing of this article. However, based on Qualcomm’s previous processor releases, it’s likely that 8 Gen 3 will be released between November and December 2023. Considering that 8 Gen 1 was released in December 2021 and 8 Gen 2 was released in November 2022.
Digital Chat Station has hinted on Weibo that 8 Gen 3 will be launched earlier than 8 Gen 2, which means before November. If this is true, Qualcomm should soon launch the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 for mid-year release, similar to the release of Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 in May 2022.
